They're also profitable. In West Africa, chickens sell for $5 each, and assuming you have a way to fertilize the eggs, a flock of five can turn into a flock of 40 in three weeks. Keep in mind, Gates' plan is aimed at people living on $2 a day.

Their eggs are also a good source of protein and other nutrients if you decide to eat them instead of sell them.

And they empower women. Raising chickens not only allows women to stay close to home but also builds up some economic power.

The foundation says 5 percent of rural families in sub-Saharan Africa raise good breeds of vaccinated chickens. Gates wants to raise that number to 30 percent.

The plan does have some naysayers. One BBC reporter is concerned that increasing the chicken supply will only decrease demand along with their sale price, but he says that doesn't mean it isn't worth a shot.